Lower Merion, PA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

The Township revised the Uniform Construction Code's standard permit-exception list for both residential and commercial construction. For residential fences, § 143-8C(2) amends UCC § 403.62[c](1)(i) so the permit exception reads: fences not over six feet in height are exempt from a building permit, except when located within the front yard zoning setback, where a permit is required regardless of height. The identical language governs commercial fences under § 143-8B(2), amending § 403.42[c](1)(i). Fence height itself is governed separately by the Zoning Code at § 155-3.7, where Table 3.7.1 sets maximum heights by district and fence location, generally four feet for a primary frontage fence and six feet for side, rear and frontage facade fencing in the low- and medium-density residential districts, measured from existing grade.

Corner lots carry an added wrinkle under § 155-3.7A(2)(c): fences there must also meet sight-distance requirements at the intersection. All fences must be properly anchored per the Uniform Construction Code under § 155-3.7A(5), and § 155-3.7A(4) bars any fence or wall within the floodway of the Schuylkill River outright. A fence installed without the required permit, or exceeding the applicable height limit, is enforced the same way as any other unpermitted construction under Chapter 143, through the Code Official in the Department of Building and Planning.